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About Richard Dacosta
Richard Dacosta
Senior Expert in Marine Governance (Consultant)

Passionate about mangroves, dedicated to transformative marine governance

Born along the Casamance River in Senegal, I have long been inspired by the resilience and richness of mangrove ecosystems. My journey as an Environmental Geographer has been shaped by a deep commitment to wetlands, coastal environments, and the communities who depend on them.

What I Bring

With more than 18 years of experience, I bring extensive knowledge in Wetlands Monitoring and Evaluation, along with a strong track record of collaboration across African countries along the Atlantic coast. My work spans the United Nations System, Inter-Governmental Organisations, Development Banks, international NGOs, and national cooperation agencies. I have led national and regional portfolios focused on marine and coastal environmental issues, sustainable development, and international cooperation, always seeking to bridge science, policy, and practice.

My Focus Areas

  • Leadership in Governance & Policy Shaping
  • Catalytic Knowledge & Insight Generation
  • Collaborative Facilitation & Transformative Engagement
  • Systems Intelligence & Project Stewardship

In My Own Words

″I believe in the power of co-creating sustainable futures where marine environments and coastal communities flourish together.″

Skills: Environmental Governance Blue Economy Coastal Ecosystems International Policy Frameworks Marine Spatial Planning Policy Development Stakeholder Engagement Strategic Project Delivery

Latest publications Richard's involved in

INC - Info sheets for negotiators

To increase knowledge on technical elements under the Plastics Treaty, GRID-Arendal has developed information sheets for negotiators.

23 Oct 2023 Briefs

Latest activities Richard's involved in

AFRIPAC: Effective Capacity Building for Global Plastics Treaty in Africa

Aiming to empower 5 African nations to inform negotiations for the global plastics treaty by increasing knowledge, capacity & collaboration.

In progress Pollution

Blue Bijagos

Sustainable management of marine resources and improved livelihoods at MPAs in Bijagós Archipelago.

In progress Nature

Mami Wata

This project applies and develops capacity on Integrated Ocean Management in countries of the African Atlantic coast.

In progress Nature

Latest news

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Arendalsuka 2025

18 Jul 2025

Why does Pride matter to us?

25 Jun 2025

GRID annual report 2024

13 Jun 2025

Accelerating action for our oceans

05 Jun 2025

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